From Fairytale to Tragedy

Painting glow-in-the-dark watch faces takes a tragic turn when people begin dying from radioactive poisoning. On December 7-11, Pace’s Performing Arts Department presents These Shining Lives, a 1920’s and 30’s story of struggle and survival.

Performing Arts students will take on Melanie Marnich’s These Shining Lives, directed by Dyson professor Ruis Woertendyke, on December 7-11 in the Schaeberle Studio Theater, 41 Park Row, 10th Floor, on the NYC Campus.

A fairytale turned tragedy, Catherine Donahue and her friends have what she calls “one-of-a-kind work in a one-of-a-kind place in a one-of-a-kind time” painting glow-in-the-dark watch faces at the Radium Dial Company in Ottawa, Illinois.

The war is over, the economy is booming, and things are looking great. Until Catherine and her friends become ill with bone infections and cancers and find out that the paint they’re using is radioactive. Though dying from the poisoning, through strength and determination the women file a class action law suit to hold companies responsible for employee safety and help save the lives of those who will come after them.

Performances will be held on Wednesday-Friday at 8:00 p.m.; Saturday at 2:00 and 8:00 p.m.; and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. For information or reservations, e-mail theater@pace.edu.